.979 OPS in March/April - play him every day for 30 days and then bench him. Key to success!

MARTINMVP

02-14-2012, 12:00 PM

I'm only OK with this as long as he is not an everyday starter right out of the gate.

soxfan21

02-14-2012, 12:01 PM

i'm only ok with this as long as he is not an everyday starter right out of the gate.

+1

Procol Harum

02-14-2012, 12:02 PM

Yes, but Tito and Jermaine Fukudome never quite made it to the majors.

No, Jermaine Fukudome spent a week in the MLB Top 40 in batting in May 2007, remember?

soltrain21

02-14-2012, 12:03 PM

Yes, but Tito and Jermaine Fukudome never quite made it to the majors.

http://i.imgur.com/8E8XW.gif

ChiSoxGirl

02-14-2012, 12:04 PM

For real?! :?: This seems clear out of the blue to me.

doublem23

02-14-2012, 12:07 PM

Yes, but Tito and Jermaine Fukudome never quite made it to the majors.

How's Janet Fukudome doing in the NPF League?

DumpJerry

02-14-2012, 12:08 PM

He did a decent job in Cleveland. The Cub fan in my office said it is a good signing-he pointed out that Fukudome's glove was pretty good when he was with the Cubs.

I like this signing, lower risk than unknown/unproven Cuban defectors. Also in Japan, there is a strong emphasis on skills while in Cuba it is the opposite, strong emphasis on talent and skills be damned.

DumpJerry

02-14-2012, 12:09 PM

How's Janet Fukudome doing in the NPF League?
She's tearing the cover off the ball.

bigsoxfan420

02-14-2012, 12:09 PM

Was there more than one?

One could only hope. But you never know...

CPditka

02-14-2012, 12:11 PM

I'm only OK with this as long as he is not an everyday starter right out of the gate.

Thats the funny thing...he should play the first month. Statistically his numbers are crazy to start seasons. I do agree with you though, hes just depth.

ChiSoxGal85

02-14-2012, 12:15 PM

I had to laugh - look what I found the other day when my son and I were cleaning out his room. I took a picture of it and was going to post it on facebook to taunt my Cub friends...I guess the joke's on me!

Actually I'm ok with this signing. It's not much money, short contract, and maybe it will scare Rios into playing better. :D:

tstrike2000

02-14-2012, 12:17 PM

Ehh, low money player for a team with relatively low expectations, so not bad I guess given the circumstances.

kittle42

02-14-2012, 12:17 PM

I'm only OK with this as long as he is not an everyday starter right out of the gate.

Actually, given his career numbers, that's exactly what he should be. Of course, that won't happen, but he has been amazing in April every year.

TommyJohn

02-14-2012, 12:19 PM

Who was more impressive-Iguchi or Fukudome?

Golden Sox

02-14-2012, 12:24 PM

I'm just asking, isn't he replacing Juan Pierre? He"s better defensively than Pierre, and he's probably as good offensively as Pierre.

shenk16

02-14-2012, 12:24 PM

KW cares about the illegal street vendors and the money that he'll be pumping in with those idiotic Fukudome tshirts.

MtGrnwdSoxFan

02-14-2012, 12:25 PM

I guess it's not a bad signing. In case De Aza or Viciedo falter (or Rios keep on being Rios), we have a player who isn't terrible at baseball able to fill in.

Lip Man 1

02-14-2012, 12:26 PM

It is what it is.

Lip

ZombieRob

02-14-2012, 12:28 PM

Most Patient hitter and best contact hitter on the team and best arm out in the outfield now. Nice move.

WSox597

02-14-2012, 12:28 PM

I'm just asking, isn't he replacing Juan Pierre? He"s better defensively than Pierre, and he's probably as good offensively as Pierre.

Does he steal bases well? I haven't really seen him play too much, but hopefully once he gets on base he's a base-stealing threat.

Hey, for what amounts to minimum wage in MLB, it could be worse. Those ridiculous tee shirts need to stay away, though. Not funny.

KW cares about the illegal street vendors and the money that he'll be pumping in with those idiotic Fukudome tshirts.

...I don't think the hype of Fukudome exists like that anymore.

MtGrnwdSoxFan

02-14-2012, 12:34 PM

Does he steal bases well? I haven't really seen him play too much, but hopefully once he gets on base he's a base-stealing threat.

Hey, for what amounts to minimum wage in MLB, it could be worse. Those ridiculous tee shirts need to stay away, though. Not funny.

He's just over 50% in SBs (29/57), so I'm pretty sure he won't be stealing too much.

De Aza and Lillibridge are our only legit base-stealers.

Hitmen77

02-14-2012, 12:36 PM

It is what it is.

Lip

Maybe that's the Sox unofficial slogan for 2012.

SoxSpeed22

02-14-2012, 12:42 PM

Unexpected, but he will make for a good 4th OF (depending on Rios) at a nice cost. Good move.

Noneck

02-14-2012, 12:43 PM

I like it. If Rios gets his head back on, De Aza, Rios, Fukudome is a pretty good defensive OF with Lillibridge filling in.

veeter

02-14-2012, 12:44 PM

Great move for the money. Overrated throwing arm IMO, but can really go get 'em.

voodoochile

02-14-2012, 12:44 PM

She's tearing the cover off the ball.

Thought that was cousin Justin Fukulake's job...

veeter

02-14-2012, 12:46 PM

She's tearing the cover off the ball.If referring to Timberlake this is awesome.

soxinem1

02-14-2012, 12:47 PM

Your 2012 White Sox: *** This!!

tstrike2000

02-14-2012, 12:55 PM

I like it. If Rios gets his head back on, De Aza, Rios, Fukudome is a pretty good defensive OF with Lillibridge filling in.

True, it at least addresses a little bit of the right field weakness the team has plus it's another lefty bat.

russ99

02-14-2012, 01:05 PM

I'm just asking, isn't he replacing Juan Pierre? He"s better defensively than Pierre, and he's probably as good offensively as Pierre.

De Aza is replacing Pierre.

Fukudome was a horrible failure at leadoff with the Cubs.

GoGoCrede

02-14-2012, 01:10 PM

Just logged on to see a bunch of WSIers online. I guess this is why. WOW!

doublem23

02-14-2012, 01:12 PM

Fukudome was a horrible failure at leadoff with the Cubs.

Well good, looks like we have a backup to replace Juan in case de Aza doesn't cut the mustard.

roylestillman

02-14-2012, 01:20 PM

Maybe that's the Sox unofficial slogan for 2012.
Sit down and Appreciate the Game!!

Whitesox029

02-14-2012, 01:23 PM

My knee-jerk reaction was, "oh no, not that clown," but $1 million is probably about what he's worth. It's not like we're paying him $14 million and relying on him to be the starting right fielder.

soxfanreggie

02-14-2012, 01:27 PM

I'm only OK with this as long as he is not an everyday starter right out of the gate.

From his historical stats, it looks like this is when you want him to play. [Not that I'm advocating for him starting] Bench him for most of the summer and then bring him back in August. He's had success as a PH as well, so that's a bonus.

It's a low-risk move and could give us some help in attracting international players, and I'm ok with it. Welcome aboard Fukudome.

JB98

02-14-2012, 01:32 PM

I've never been a fan of Fukudome's, but he has a good glove. He can handle all three outfield spots, and he comes cheap. That's pretty much what you're looking for in a fourth outfielder.

He can be used for late-inning defense in place of Viciedo. If Rios decides to be among the worst players in baseball again this year, Fukudome can at least come in and play mediocre.

Not inspiring, I know, but it's not a bad move as minor moves go.

Juice16

02-14-2012, 01:41 PM

I've never been a fan of Fukudome's, but he has a good glove. He can handle all three outfield spots, and he comes cheap. That's pretty much what you're looking for in a fourth outfielder.

He can be used for late-inning defense in place of Viciedo. If Rios decides to be among the worst players in baseball again this year, Fukudome can at least come in and play mediocre.

Not inspiring, I know, but it's not a bad move as minor moves go.

Agreed.

Boondock Saint

02-14-2012, 01:42 PM

I've never been a fan of Fukudome's, but he has a good glove. He can handle all three outfield spots, and he comes cheap. That's pretty much what you're looking for in a fourth outfielder.

He can be used for late-inning defense in place of Viciedo. If Rios decides to be among the worst players in baseball again this year, Fukudome can at least come in and play mediocre.

Not inspiring, I know, but it's not a bad move as minor moves go.

Agreed. For a potential $1m investment, it's pretty good.

MARTINMVP

02-14-2012, 01:43 PM

Thats the funny thing...he should play the first month. Statistically his numbers are crazy to start seasons. I do agree with you though, hes just depth.

I thought about this track record and how he typically plays his best in April.

Will that hold true against AL pitching though?

Trying not to be irrational. The quoted post above THIS post by JB98 does make sense.

tebman

02-14-2012, 01:48 PM

How's Janet Fukudome doing in the NPF League?

She's tearing the cover off the ball.

:rolling:

DirtySox

02-14-2012, 01:57 PM

Bench depth. Worthwhile signing. Nothing to get excited about though.

cheezheadsoxfan

02-14-2012, 02:15 PM

We've had worse signings. :shrug:

DeadMoney

02-14-2012, 02:21 PM

He had a slightly better 2011 than Rios/Dunn/Beckham/Morel, so why the hell not? He'll fit right in!

GlassSox

02-14-2012, 02:27 PM

Meh...

:thumbsup:

balke

02-14-2012, 02:50 PM

Good signing. Didn't spend any money - and if Viciedo, Lillibridge, Dunn, De Aza, or Rios are terrible - there's a backup plan.

soxinem1

02-14-2012, 02:55 PM

At least KW can say he got his man..... again.... eventually.

doublem23

02-14-2012, 02:58 PM

We've had worse signings. :shrug:

Yeah, seriously, if you didn't see the name and just saw the Sox signed a 4th OF with a better than average glove who can cover all 3 spots and hit .262/.342/.370 last season for $1 M, I think we'd all be pretty happy about that. I mean, the alternative is Jordan Danks.

CLUBHOUSE KID

02-14-2012, 02:58 PM

Defensive replacement in late innings I guess.

This is what my brother said (would replace Dyan). I really do not understand this move and I think it is a waste. I am interested in seeing what he actually does.

doublem23

02-14-2012, 02:59 PM

I really do not understand this move and I think it is a waste. I am interested in seeing what he actually does.

You generally need more than 3 outfielders to get through a 162 game season.

Hitmen77

02-14-2012, 03:11 PM

Seems like only yesterday that the "Cubune" was reporting on the Cubs signing Fukudome:

You generally need more than 3 outfielders to get through a 162 game season.

They actually had five before the signing but two of them are men without a position, so now they do have 4 legit outfielders.

Chez

02-14-2012, 03:25 PM

At least KW can say he got his man..... again.... eventually.

Yep. I'm sure Torii Hunter will get a spring training invite from KW and the Sox in 2017.

DirtySox

02-14-2012, 03:37 PM

As a defensive player, we could do worse.:scratch:

I'm not so sure on this. He doesn't pass the eye test to me, and UZR seems to agree. Probably an upgrade defensively over Dayan though in late game situations.

ElevenUp

02-14-2012, 03:37 PM

For the money, this is not a bad signing. I've missed having a Japanese presence on the team since Iguchi left.

kittle42

02-14-2012, 03:39 PM

Yep. I'm sure Torii Hunter will get a spring training invite from KW and the Sox in 2017.

A winner is you.

Foulke You

02-14-2012, 03:40 PM

Not sure if this has been posted but ESPN has wasted no time in updating his uniform on their website. After wearing the blue clown hat with the red C and then the racist cartoon emblem of the Tribe, Fukudome has never looked this good :tongue:
http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/28948/kosuke-fukudome

eriqjaffe

02-14-2012, 03:41 PM

Yep. I'm sure Torii Hunter will get a spring training invite from KW and the Sox in 2017.Actually, we'll probably trade a couple of prospects for him in July 2016.

tstrike2000

02-14-2012, 03:43 PM

Actually, we'll probably trade a couple of prospects for him in July 2016.

Or get ARoid in 2015 during his quest for 762.

hi im skot

02-14-2012, 03:44 PM

Not sure if this has been posted but ESPN has wasted no time in updating his uniform on their website. After wearing the blue clown hat with the red C and then the racist cartoon emblem of the Tribe, Fukudome has never looked this good :tongue:
http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/28948/kosuke-fukudome

I like Chief Wahoo lurking in the background.

tstrike2000

02-14-2012, 03:45 PM

I like Chief Wahoo lurking in the background.

Hmm, a cryptic message of the Indians looking up at the Sox in the standings?

Hitmen77

02-14-2012, 04:05 PM

Yep. I'm sure Torii Hunter will get a spring training invite from KW and the Sox in 2017.

....and Aaron Rowand will be the new White Sox manager that season.

TommyJohn

02-14-2012, 04:20 PM

Seems like only yesterday that the "Cubune" was reporting on the Cubs signing Fukudome:

In no way was this a glamorous move. But, to me it shows that KW is clearly not going to do anything bold this offseason. In fact, I doubt if he does anything more!

I don't know what you're expecting from a team that's clearly in a rebuilding mode.

I'd be shocked if he doesn't make some more moves, even if it's small deals that simply add depth to the farm system.

kittle42

02-14-2012, 06:01 PM

In no way was this a glamorous move. But, to me it shows that KW is clearly not going to do anything bold this offseason. In fact, I doubt if he does anything more!

Has anyone outside of people who don't pay much attention expected the Sox to do anything bold? It's a rebuilding-while-treading-water year yet again, but they have acknowledged that all offseason. Why would it change?

MikeKreevich

02-14-2012, 06:10 PM

The Shemp Howard fan in me loves it.

SoxRox

02-14-2012, 06:18 PM

This is a low-risk signing. He always seemed to do well for the Cubs in the early part of the season. If he starts off well again, maybe Kenny can use him as mid-season trade bait?

roylestillman

02-14-2012, 06:31 PM

4th outfielder sounds good. Had MLB experience. It's going to take time for the Sox to rebuild, and he's a decent stop-gap measure to have on the bench.

Where does this leave Lillibridge? I know he played some infield last year, but he was primarily out in the OF.

Frontman

02-14-2012, 06:44 PM

Where does this leave Lillibridge? I know he played some infield last year, but he was primarily out in the OF.

Super-sub. Both available for OF and IF work. Also, ins't Lillibridge a better base runner than Fukudome? He could handle pinch running for the Sox slow power hitters.

slavko

02-14-2012, 06:45 PM

Where does this leave Lillibridge? I know he played some infield last year, but he was primarily out in the OF.

He's tradeable (BL). Based on his performance after the callup, I'm very worried about Viciedo. This might be the fallback. Some pretty good zingers in this thread. That's why I come here.:D:

soxinem1

02-14-2012, 06:52 PM

Super-sub. Both available for OF and IF work. Also, ins't Lillibridge a better base runner than Fukudome? He could handle pinch running for the Sox slow power hitters.

Hmmm, last I checked we only had one slow-footed power hitter. :smile:

beasly213

02-14-2012, 06:53 PM

If 500K is such a good bargain for this guy. Why didn't the Indians keep him for that price? They also need outfield depth.

It's possible that he wanted to come back to Chicago.. Just speculating but it's a possibility.

Foulke You

02-14-2012, 06:54 PM

I wonder if De Aza's poor showing in Dominican Winter Ball had anything to do with this signing? I wonder how much of a leash they'll give De Aza out of the gate in April? I like the Fukudome move though. Added outfield depth, solid defender, and he comes very cheap. It's not like there were a ton of options in the minors. My understanding is that Fukudome is very good in the corner outfield spots but is "just ok" in CF.

October26

02-14-2012, 07:31 PM

Let's have a go at it:

Sox sign ex-Cub Fukudome
Chicago's first Asian player fell tragically short of becoming first Asian to be on World Series winner in 2008

Sullivan: Will White Sox "fans" greet ex-Cub great with slurs and insulting Asian caricatures? Of course they will

Kaplan: Fukudome's Cub contract "far more impressive"

BEAT. ME. TO. IT.

THE GONG SHOW

Will White Sox ruin another Japanese prospect?

On the Cheap? Are the Sox insulting the Isle of Japan with such a low contract?

I wonder if De Aza's poor showing in Dominican Winter Ball had anything to do with this signing? I wonder how much of a leash they'll give De Aza out of the gate in April? I like the Fukudome move though. Added outfield depth, solid defender, and he comes very cheap. It's not like there were a ton of options in the minors. My understanding is that Fukudome is very good in the corner outfield spots but is "just ok" in CF.

Interesting point on De Aza and his poor showing in the DR Winter League. One observation I have from watching those Winter League games is that De Aza was not playing with his aggressive style. He made very little contact (batting average in the .160's, I think) and also looked flat in the field. My father commented that De Aza did not look like the same player we saw with the Sox last year.

I'm not sure what to make of the Fukudome signing.

HebrewHammer

02-14-2012, 07:45 PM

Fukudome was a horrible failure at leadoff with the Cubs.

He should fit right in with our team concept.

SOXSINCE'70

02-14-2012, 08:01 PM

:ohno:facepalm:

Frater Perdurabo

02-14-2012, 08:38 PM

In addition to being a solid bench addition at low cost, there is also a chance, albeit a small one, that Fukudome could be extra motivated and might actually earn a starting job and have a very good year.

hi im skot

02-14-2012, 08:46 PM

:ohno:facepalm:

This is an appropriate response to signing a fourth outfielder to a minimal contract.

SephClone89

02-14-2012, 09:04 PM

This is an appropriate response to signing a fourth outfielder to a minimal contract.

:clap:

34rancher

02-14-2012, 09:09 PM

Why is Kenny following the jim Henry playbook? I understand needing an outfielder for d purposes, but what nl reject/has been is next? This team has the potential for 90 loses pretty easily.

Boondock Saint

02-14-2012, 09:17 PM

Why is Kenny following the jim Henry playbook? I understand needing an outfielder for d purposes, but what nl reject/has been is next? This team has the potential for 90 loses pretty easily.

Every team has 90 loss potential if the guys on the field play like ass and underachieve.

SephClone89

02-14-2012, 09:17 PM

Why is Kenny following the jim Henry playbook? I understand needing an outfielder for d purposes, but what nl reject/has been is next? This team has the potential for 90 loses pretty easily.

I'm not seeing any correlation between Kenny Williams's current method and Jim Hendry's.

Frontman

02-14-2012, 09:18 PM

Hmmm, last I checked we only had one slow-footed power hitter. :smile:

Touche.

Tragg

02-14-2012, 09:40 PM

Fine as a bench player.

I just have this vision of our new Fukudome Erstad, who's the equivalent of a 30 home run a year guy, with .400 obp.

hi im skot

02-14-2012, 09:42 PM

I'm not seeing any correlation between Kenny Williams's current method and Jim Hendry's.

BECAUSE FUKUDOME PLAYED FOR THE CUBS!

Jesus Christ, just shoot me.

Frontman

02-14-2012, 09:44 PM

BECAUSE FUKUDOME PLAYED FOR THE CUBS!

Jesus Christ, just shoot me.

Bang.

hi im skot

02-14-2012, 09:48 PM

Bang.

If that means I don't have to deal with the knuckleheads who are actually somehow upset by this, then I'm thankful for the sweet relief death brings me.

doublem23

02-14-2012, 10:06 PM

Why is Kenny following the jim Henry playbook? I understand needing an outfielder for d purposes, but what nl reject/has been is next? This team has the potential for 90 loses pretty easily.

Yeah, but that doesn't change at all with the addition of Fukudome who is going to be THE FOURTH OUTFIELDER. Considering what kind of a player he is and how little money the Sox committed to him, this is a pretty savvy move. Kosuke should have just changed his ****ing name and saved people a lot of embarrassing posts in this thread. Do you really think the Sox would have been contenders in the AL if Fukudome was replaced by Jordan Danks?

DirtySox

02-14-2012, 10:07 PM

This team has the potential for 90 loses pretty easily.

They won't be that bad lest decimated by injuries or Kenny trades more pieces, particularly Gavin.

SephClone89

02-14-2012, 10:09 PM

Yeah, but that doesn't change at all with the addition of Fukudome who is going to be THE FOURTH OUTFIELDER. Considering what kind of a player he is and how little money the Sox committed to him, this is a pretty savvy move. Kosuke should have just changed his ****ing name and saved people a lot of embarrassing posts in this thread. Do you really think the Sox would have been contenders in the AL if Fukudome was replaced by Jordan Danks?

:gulp:

DumpJerry

02-14-2012, 10:16 PM

I am convinced that if Kenny negotiated a lasting peace in the Middle East and invented a 100% surefire cure for Male Pattern Baldness, there are always some WSIers who will refuse to give him any credit.

CLUBHOUSE KID

02-14-2012, 10:16 PM

You generally need more than 3 outfielders to get through a 162 game season.

I am aware of that but A) Why him and B) What about Lillibridge?

doublem23

02-14-2012, 10:21 PM

I am aware of that but A) Why him and B) What about Lillibridge?

A) Because he's not terrible and they're paying him basically peanuts and B) I think Lillibridge is going to be more of the utility IF now that Omar is gone.

For the money it seems like a pretty solid signing. Decent upside and a couple years of MLB experience for the equivalent price of one Peavy start? I'll take it.

I think its safe to say at some point this year Rios, Viciedo, Lillibridge, or DeAza will struggle mightily, and likely two of those 4 will be struggling at the same time so it'll be nice to have another option to plug in there.

asindc

02-14-2012, 10:44 PM

I am aware of that but A) Why him and B) What about Lillibridge?

I have a much, much better question: Why not him?

Zisk77

02-14-2012, 11:11 PM

I am convinced that if Kenny negotiated a lasting peace in the Middle East and invented a 100% surefire cure for Male Pattern Baldness, there are always some WSIers who will refuse to give him any credit.

Well duh. He should have done the former sooner and they latter cheaper.

SoxSpeed22

02-14-2012, 11:25 PM

http://i.imgur.com/u523X.gif?MrRabbit to this whole thread.
For some reason, that dog looking around made me laugh.
Viciedo, De Aza (and you could also make a good case for Rios) are still unknowns and we got a left handed vet who could play left and right field, who also gets walks at a decent rate, for little money, compared to other deals.
This is going to be an excruciating rebuild experience around here, isn't it?

TommyJohn

02-14-2012, 11:26 PM

I am convinced that if Kenny negotiated a lasting peace in the Middle East and invented a 100% surefire cure for Male Pattern Baldness, there are always some WSIers who will refuse to give him any credit.

Why would Kenny want to find a cure for male pattern baldness when there are far worse things in the word? Will he ever stop being a moron?

34rancher

02-14-2012, 11:30 PM

I'm not seeing any correlation between Kenny Williams's current method and Jim Hendry's.
Well here's how I see it. Hendry out bid everyone for Kosuke, and the sox have signed him. Hendry believing Juan Pierre was a solution. Signing an aging power hitter to a contract no one else in baseball was even close to offering from the Nationals. Both going after Peavy. Signing the big name has been trying to catch lightening in a bottle and trying to excite the fan base (see the past few years with Omar, Manny, Jr., etc.). I feel like Kenny is following a Hendry plan. Not saying he is the same, but these players seem very "cub-like".
Yeah, but that doesn't change at all with the addition of Fukudome who is going to be THE FOURTH OUTFIELDER. Considering what kind of a player he is and how little money the Sox committed to him, this is a pretty savvy move. Kosuke should have just changed his ****ing name and saved people a lot of embarrassing posts in this thread. Do you really think the Sox would have been contenders in the AL if Fukudome was replaced by Jordan Danks?
I agree on the fourth infielder, and for defense, I get it. But why not see Danks out there? I don't see any way we are in competition this year for a playoff spot. Why not start looking for young talent and find out what we have? My problem is that we are one injury from Kosuke leading off on an everyday basis.
They won't be that bad lest decimated by injuries or Kenny trades more pieces, particularly Gavin.
I hope I'm wrong, but we are IMO so much closer to 90+ loses than we are to the number of games we will finish out of first place. This team is just set up where everything has to go perfect to compete.

SoxSpeed22

02-14-2012, 11:47 PM

Well here's how I see it. Hendry out bid everyone for Kosuke, and the sox have signed him. Hendry believing Juan Pierre was a solution. Signing an aging power hitter to a contract no one else in baseball was even close to offering from the Nationals. Both going after Peavy. Signing the big name has been trying to catch lightening in a bottle and trying to excite the fan base (see the past few years with Omar, Manny, Jr., etc.). I feel like Kenny is following a Hendry plan. Not saying he is the same, but these players seem very "cub-like".
Last year, the Cards won with 'washed-up veterans' Jake Westbrook, Lance Berkman and Rafael Furcal. The Yankees got by with Freddy Garcia in their rotation. Every team tries to buy low on various veterans. They became big names for a reason, because they are good baseball players.
The Dunn signing in hindsight was a killer, but we all agreed that we were missing left handed power. As for Peavy, he could have been an ace, but wasn't and he had a really nasty injury. KW has tried to get flashy, but there haven't been big signings, except for Dunn.

doublem23

02-15-2012, 12:22 AM

I agree on the fourth infielder, and for defense, I get it. But why not see Danks out there? I don't see any way we are in competition this year for a playoff spot. Why not start looking for young talent and find out what we have? My problem is that we are one injury from Kosuke leading off on an everyday basis.

Because maybe you should take a look into the Magic Ball you can't stop talking about when it comes to Adam Dunn and see that Jordan Danks suuuuuuuuuuuuuuucks.

He's a .250 hitter in AAA. AAA. The Sox didn't even bother protecting him in the Rule V Draft and not one team took him for essentially nothing. Just because it's en vogue to think this Sox team has no chance at competing doesn't mean Kenny should just sit back and do absolutely nothing. If Rios and Dunn can even perform at their career averages, the Sox are very likely the 2nd best team in the Central. Crazier **** has happened. You want to be unhappy about the Peavy, Rios, or Dunn contracts that are hamstringing the team right now, that's fine, but getting upset over Kosuke Fukudome because he OMG played for the Cubs is silly nonsense.

Noneck

02-15-2012, 12:33 AM

When a team is going into a season with 2 unknown entities as starters in the corner outfielder positions, picking up a veteran who has proven he is a good defensive outfielder is a nice move. A 4th ofer at this point yes, in the future who knows.

Nellie_Fox

02-15-2012, 01:00 AM

...we are IMO so much closer to 90+ loses than we are to the number of games we will finish out of first place.I've read that until my head hurts, and I simply can't figure it out.

34rancher

02-15-2012, 01:01 AM

Because maybe you should take a look into the Magic Ball you can't stop talking about when it comes to Adam Dunn and see that Jordan Danks suuuuuuuuuuuuuuucks.

He's a .250 hitter in AAA. AAA. The Sox didn't even bother protecting him in the Rule V Draft and not one team took him for essentially nothing. Just because it's en vogue to think this Sox team has no chance at competing doesn't mean Kenny should just sit back and do absolutely nothing. If Rios and Dunn can even perform at their career averages, the Sox are very likely the 2nd best team in the Central. Crazier **** has happened. You want to be unhappy about the Peavy, Rios, or Dunn contracts that are hamstringing the team right now, that's fine, but getting upset over Kosuke Fukudome because he OMG played for the Cubs is silly nonsense.

No, I'm not happy signing a 35 year old (by season opener) that will probably have to be a starting outfielder by the ASB, regardless of who he played for. But I've seen enough old players from the NL that Kenny wanted 5 years earlier come to this team and basically do little but help finish a season. It's Hendry-esque. Why not call Jim Edmonds too at this point. I don't care if it is Danks or another younger player, but I'd like to think we are building for 4 years from now when we are actually able to think about trying to compete again instead of just filling out a roster.

doublem23

02-15-2012, 01:01 AM

I've read that until my head hurts, and I simply can't figure it out.

I guess he thinks the Sox are going to finish 46 games out of 1st place?

doublem23

02-15-2012, 01:15 AM

No, I'm not happy signing a 35 year old (by season opener) that will probably have to be a starting outfielder by the ASB, regardless of who he played for. But I've seen enough old players from the NL that Kenny wanted 5 years earlier come to this team and basically do little but help finish a season. It's Hendry-esque. Why not call Jim Edmonds too at this point. I don't care if it is Danks or another younger player, but I'd like to think we are building for 4 years from now when we are actually able to think about trying to compete again instead of just filling out a roster.

Only a complete ****ing nutjob would actually think that Jordan Danks or any of the other garbage we have in our farm system is some kind of building block for the future that's ready for regular MLB playing time. At 25 years old, Danks isn't even good enough for 1 team to take a flyer on him as MLB roster filler. He. Is. Nothing. Anyone else like Thompson, or Walker, or Mitchell would be another rush-job to the MLB so great, just stunt their growth so the fans at Sox Park don't have to be shackled with the horror of having to watch an ex-Cub get some playing time. Fukudome, on the other hand, is a proven MLB veteran who can serviceably play all 3 defensive positions and has had an excellent career to date as a pinch hitter. For $1 M over 1 year this is a fine signing for your 4th OF, if his name was John Williams or Pablo Rodriguez or Hideki Hasegawa everyone would be absolutely fine with this, but since he was a Cub! (Jim Hendry signed him!!!!!!!) people lose their ****, which is a stupid thing to do.

Hey, I think by now we all know that you think the Sox are going to lose 120 games or whatever (since you can't help but squeeze that nugget in EVERY. ****ING. POST.) but thankfully the guys who actually have some pull with this team aren't pretending like the 2012 season isn't going to happen and are still interested in making small, savvy moves that will both make the current roster better than it was and add organizational depth so that younger players aren't rushed into jobs they're not ready for.

DumpJerry

02-15-2012, 08:18 AM

Thanks to this thread, my basement is flooded because of the ten inch rainfall from all the dark clouds overhead in past twenty four hours.

TommyJohn

02-15-2012, 08:25 AM

Thanks to this thread, my basement is flooded because of the ten inch rainfall from all the dark clouds overhead in past twenty four hours.

Why can't Kenny do something about this damn weather?

AlleghenySoxFan

02-15-2012, 08:32 AM

I think people are seriously overreacting to a fourth outfielder signing. And the 90 losses doom and gloom stuff is even worse. The only way we do that bad is with multiple injuries to the pitching staff and career low years for Adam Dunn and Alex Rios. I don't see this happening, and those of you coming on here and just being incredibly pessimistic is ridiculous.

There is no reason to get yourself all in a rut before Spring Training has even started. In fact there is no reason to get upset until our annual horrible April and May. Until that happens we have a chance to compete in the Central. If everyone is so discouraged right now, half the WSIers are going to be on suicide watch come spring time.

tstrike2000

02-15-2012, 08:40 AM

Why can't Kenny do something about this damn weather?

He may have already been working under the radar providing us with the 6th warmest winter on record.

tstrike2000

02-15-2012, 08:43 AM

No, I'm not happy signing a 35 year old (by season opener) that will probably have to be a starting outfielder by the ASB, regardless of who he played for. But I've seen enough old players from the NL that Kenny wanted 5 years earlier come to this team and basically do little but help finish a season. It's Hendry-esque. Why not call Jim Edmonds too at this point. I don't care if it is Danks or another younger player, but I'd like to think we are building for 4 years from now when we are actually able to think about trying to compete again instead of just filling out a roster.

I don't think you need to worry about that unless someone throws a hand grenade in the clubhouse killing a couple of our outfielders OR one of them suck so bad that we have no choice but to start Kosuke. If the latter is the case, we obviously have much bigger problems than Fukudome.

chisoxfanatic

02-15-2012, 10:13 AM

I don't know about you guys. But, I'm set on the thought that these guys are going to be boring-bad this year.

doublem23

02-15-2012, 10:16 AM

I think people are seriously overreacting to a fourth outfielder signing. And the 90 losses doom and gloom stuff is even worse. The only way we do that bad is with multiple injuries to the pitching staff and career low years for Adam Dunn and Alex Rios. I don't see this happening, and those of you coming on here and just being incredibly pessimistic is ridiculous.

There is no reason to get yourself all in a rut before Spring Training has even started. In fact there is no reason to get upset until our annual horrible April and May. Until that happens we have a chance to compete in the Central. If everyone is so discouraged right now, half the WSIers are going to be on suicide watch come spring time.

I don't even care if people want to be pessimistic, the roster is in a mess, we have a rookie manager, and the payroll is basically maxed out; all good reasons to not expect a great season upcoming, but at least if you're going to be doom and gloom, take a moment to craft a thoughtful comment and not just roll out the our 4th OF played for the Cubs and Jim Hendry once DUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRR we'd be better off with Jordan Danks.

hi im skot

02-15-2012, 10:30 AM

I don't know about you guys. But, I'm set on the thought that these guys are going to be boring-bad this year.

Great. You can watch something else.

Baseball is baseball, and the Sox are my team. I'll go down with the ship if I have to, and you can find something else to occupy your time.

TomBradley72

02-15-2012, 11:06 AM

So we're a "rebuilding team" that has to go with a mediocre 35 yo for our 4th outfielder?

Pathetic.

We trade Santos for a long term prospect but our roster is filled with aging veterans like Dunn, Peavy, Rios, AJ, PK- and now we've added Dan Johnson and Fukudome- what a mess Robin will be working with this season.

kittle42

02-15-2012, 11:11 AM

BECAUSE FUKUDOME PLAYED FOR THE CUBS!

Jesus Christ, just shoot me.

Seriously. Some people are just silly.

eriqjaffe

02-15-2012, 11:13 AM

So we're a "rebuilding team" that has to go with a mediocre 35 yo for our 4th outfielder?

Pathetic.

We trade Santos for a long term prospect but our roster is filled with aging veterans like Dunn, Peavy, Rios, AJ, PK- and now we've added Dan Johnson and Fukudome- what a mess Robin will be working with this season.IMHO, Fukudome and Johnson (or, really any players like that) are just stopgap players. Anybody in the Sox farm system that is even remotely ready for the big leagues is already there. Danks, MitchThe "toosly" players like Mitchell and Walker which the Sox have loved drafting will take longer to develop, and will not be able to contribute in the majors for a few years. If ever.

The Sox have a couple choices - force their farmhands to ride the bench in the big leagues and risk hindering their development, or let them play regularly in the minors and hope their tools turn into skills. Of the two, I'd much rather go with the latter.

As far as Santos goes, I get the feeling that was Williams attempting to sell high. I just don't think he really knows how to do that very well.

As far as Santos goes, I get the feeling that was Williams attempting to sell high. I just don't think he really knows how to do that very well.

What, a mid-level, declining-in-the-eyes-of-evaluators talent isn't a good enough return for a closer who is cost-controlled for years?

doublem23

02-15-2012, 11:26 AM

IMHO, Fukudome and Johnson (or, really any players like that) are just stopgap players. Anybody in the Sox farm system that is even remotely ready for the big leagues is already there. Danks, MitchThe "toosly" players like Mitchell and Walker which the Sox have loved drafting will take longer to develop, and will not be able to contribute in the majors for a few years. If ever.

The Sox have a couple choices - force their farmhands to ride the bench in the big leagues and risk hindering their development, or let them play regularly in the minors and hope their tools turn into skills. Of the two, I'd much rather go with the latter.

As far as Santos goes, I get the feeling that was Williams attempting to sell high. I just don't think he really knows how to do that very well.

I don't understand why this is such a difficult concept for people to grasp. Does anyone think the Sox would be better served in the short and long term if we had guys like Keenan Walker and Trayce Thompson sitting on the bench in Chicago instead of getting regular playing time in the minor leagues? Every team has stopgap veterans to fill in roster space. The Royals, with their vaunted farm system, just signed 30-year-old Yunieksy Betancourt to a 1-year-deal. The Rays, who have a great farm system, signed 33-year-old DH Luke Scott to a 1-year-deal with an option for a 2nd year this off-season.

TomBradley72

02-15-2012, 11:26 AM

IMHO, Fukudome and Johnson (or, really any players like that) are just stopgap players. Anybody in the Sox farm system that is even remotely ready for the big leagues is already there. Danks, MitchThe "toosly" players like Mitchell and Walker which the Sox have loved drafting will take longer to develop, and will not be able to contribute in the majors for a few years. If ever.

The Sox have a couple choices - force their farmhands to ride the bench in the big leagues and risk hindering their development, or let them play regularly in the minors and hope their tools turn into skills. Of the two, I'd much rather go with the latter.

As far as Santos goes, I get the feeling that was Williams attempting to sell high. I just don't think he really knows how to do that very well.

Fair points- it's been a very long time since any of Kenny's "bigger moves" paid off- so I'm in 100% wait and see mode with him-

CLUBHOUSE KID

02-15-2012, 11:38 AM

I have a much, much better question: Why not him?

The $ for what he is when we could have what he could offer in-house.

doublem23

02-15-2012, 11:43 AM

The $ for what he is when we could have what he could offer in-house.

If the Sox pick up his option for 2013 then he's basically making the Major League minimum and I would respectfully disagree that the Sox have anyone internally who would have been an upgrade over Fukudome.

At any rate, he's organizational depth. Protection in case someone gets hurt we don't have to go back down the 2007 path again and watch Jerry Owens, Andy Gonzalez, and Luis Terrero for a combined 221 games.

voodoochile

02-15-2012, 11:43 AM

Look at the bright side. The Sox outbid the flubbies originally for his services but he went to them for other reasons. So the Sox just saved a ton by switching to GEICO...

SOX ADDICT '73

02-15-2012, 12:34 PM

World Series, here we come!

...and, Kenny ALWAYS gets his guy!
Pray that he doesn't find out Seattle is listening to offers for Chone Figgins...

SOX ADDICT '73

02-15-2012, 12:45 PM

Hmmm, last I checked we only had one slow-footed power hitter. :smile:
You could take "slow-footed" out of the above statement, and it would still be correct.

CLUBHOUSE KID

02-15-2012, 01:20 PM

If the Sox pick up his option for 2013 then he's basically making the Major League minimum and I would respectfully disagree that the Sox have anyone internally who would have been an upgrade over Fukudome.

At any rate, he's organizational depth. Protection in case someone gets hurt we don't have to go back down the 2007 path again and watch Jerry Owens, Andy Gonzalez, and Luis Terrero for a combined 221 games.

I see your point. Good point.

JB98

02-15-2012, 01:58 PM

Just wondering, is 11 pages a record for a thread about a fourth outfielder?

Don't see why this move provokes so much emotion. As I stated yesterday, it's not a bad move as minor moves go.

I agree with doub, Jordan Danks stinks. He will never help the White Sox in a meaningful way. Your other outfield prospects aren't ready yet. Makes sense to have a veteran like Fukudome and a utility guy like Lillibridge around to buy time while the rebuild (hopefully) happens.

hi im skot

02-15-2012, 02:00 PM

Don't see why this move provokes so much emotion.

It's easy:

http://www.billy-ball.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/fukudome.jpg

thomas35forever

02-15-2012, 02:09 PM

It's easy:

http://www.billy-ball.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/fukudome.jpg
I call the patent on the White Sox editions of stereotypical Japanese wear.

Foulke You

02-15-2012, 02:41 PM

Only a complete ****ing nutjob would actually think that Jordan Danks or any of the other garbage we have in our farm system is some kind of building block for the future that's ready for regular MLB playing time. At 25 years old, Danks isn't even good enough for 1 team to take a flyer on him as MLB roster filler. He. Is. Nothing. Anyone else like Thompson, or Walker, or Mitchell would be another rush-job to the MLB so great, just stunt their growth so the fans at Sox Park don't have to be shackled with the horror of having to watch an ex-Cub get some playing time. Fukudome, on the other hand, is a proven MLB veteran who can serviceably play all 3 defensive positions and has had an excellent career to date as a pinch hitter. For $1 M over 1 year this is a fine signing for your 4th OF, if his name was John Williams or Pablo Rodriguez or Hideki Hasegawa everyone would be absolutely fine with this, but since he was a Cub! (Jim Hendry signed him!!!!!!!) people lose their ****, which is a stupid thing to do.

Hey, I think by now we all know that you think the Sox are going to lose 120 games or whatever (since you can't help but squeeze that nugget in EVERY. ****ING. POST.) but thankfully the guys who actually have some pull with this team aren't pretending like the 2012 season isn't going to happen and are still interested in making small, savvy moves that will both make the current roster better than it was and add organizational depth so that younger players aren't rushed into jobs they're not ready for.
Excellent post. Sums up my thoughts completely.

kittle42

02-15-2012, 02:42 PM

Every time someone throws a hissy fit when the Sox acquire or even consider acquiring a former Cub (solely because he is a former Cub) makes me embarrassed to be a Sox fan.

I would have loved to see the reaction if Sandberg was the new manager.

soltrain21

02-15-2012, 03:09 PM

I don't know about you guys. But, I'm set on the thought that these guys are going to be boring-bad this year.

At any rate, he's organizational depth. Protection in case someone gets hurt we don't have to go back down the 2007 path again and watch Jerry Owens, Andy Gonzalez, and Luis Terrero for a combined 221 games.

The thought ruined my day.

I would have loved to see the reaction if Sandberg was the new manager.

Would have made more sense than Ventura. No, I'm not hoping he fails.

doublem23

02-15-2012, 04:12 PM

Would have made more sense than Ventura. No, I'm not hoping he fails.

I'm hoping Robin is a smash success, too, but I'll agree that after Ozzie was told to get the **** out, Sandberg was #3 on my list if dream managers for the Sox in 2012 after Dave Martinez and Terry Francona.

That said, I have absolutely no understanding or experience in the inner workings of a Major League locker room and clubhouse, so my opinion on the matter is basically worthless. I preferred Cito Gaston to Ozzie in 2004 and Ozzie ended up being a good manager until sometime in the last few years when he just apparently stopped caring.

spawn

02-15-2012, 04:42 PM

This thread has been ****ing hilarious.

DumpJerry

02-15-2012, 04:48 PM

I don't know about you guys. But, I'm set on the thought that these guys are going to be boring-bad this year.
What is "boring-bad?" Is that when a team is so bad, nobody gets excited about it like we did in 2007? Or is it when White Sox Charities has the players do a community project rebuilding homes and they have to drill holes in 2X4's and they just can't get the drills to work properly causing poorly drilled holes?

Or is it they will be boring because Robin Ventura does not fly off the handle every three minutes and his kids don't tweet **** from players' personal lives? While that may be boring, it's not bad.

Nellie_Fox

02-15-2012, 04:59 PM

What is "boring-bad?"To paraphrase Potter Stewart, I can't define it, but I know it when I see it. There's fun bad and there's boring bad.

RCWHITESOX

02-15-2012, 05:35 PM

I think it was a good signing for a 4th OF The price was right. As for this year I am in the wait and see mode.

SOXSINCE'70

02-15-2012, 06:08 PM

This is an appropriate response to signing a fourth outfielder to a minimal contract.

Thank you. I am very confused by this signing.

TommyJohn

02-15-2012, 06:09 PM

For my own part, I wouldn't have minded Sandberg as manager. I just want to see someone in there who can manage. He wouldn't have been the first ex-Cub to manage the Sox anyway-there's Tony LaRussa, Don Kessinger, Chuck Tanner and Eddie Stanky, amongst others. But, you know, whatever.

soxinem1

02-15-2012, 07:01 PM

Because maybe you should take a look into the Magic Ball you can't stop talking about when it comes to Adam Dunn and see that Jordan Danks suuuuuuuuuuuuuuucks.

He's a .250 hitter in AAA. AAA. The Sox didn't even bother protecting him in the Rule V Draft and not one team took him for essentially nothing. Just because it's en vogue to think this Sox team has no chance at competing doesn't mean Kenny should just sit back and do absolutely nothing. If Rios and Dunn can even perform at their career averages, the Sox are very likely the 2nd best team in the Central. Crazier **** has happened. You want to be unhappy about the Peavy, Rios, or Dunn contracts that are hamstringing the team right now, that's fine, but getting upset over Kosuke Fukudome because he OMG played for the Cubs is silly nonsense.

I agree with what you said, except for the protests about this signing.

I doubt Danks sees much major-league time because his talent level is not very promising. But still, I would want to see other young players if we are going to supposedly start building from within.

For a team that is supposed to be 'rebuilding' and 'getting younger', why sign a 34-year old bust for depth? Depth is for contending teams, so if you are getting younger, i.e., rebuilding, why even sign him? Rotate any minor league OF you have until you find one that sticks.

I find it hard to rationalize trading a closer making a low salary for a borderline prospect, letting Buehrle walk without even a wimper, shopping your starting pitching to get younger prospects (Gavin Floyd can still be dealt and probably will by end of July), then signing a bust like Fukudome to add 'depth'. Rebuilding means rebuild, so do it.

Why have this base-clogger who craps out by June 15 taking AB's from your younger players? Let Lillibridge be your main back up guy.

So my take is, if you are going to blow it up, then do it. Plan on having all the vets except possibly Konerko gone by August. But don't stave it off by bringing guys like this on board. All it does is rob the players you want to see and evaluate of playing time.

How many people realize that it's better to give a young guy daily playing time in the minors, than have him sit on the bench in the majors, only playing 2-4 times a week?
Can we understand the concept that the White Sox do not have a whole lot of young guys that are ready to play in the majors. A Sox lineup with Eduardo Escobar, Jordan Danks, Trayce Thompson and Michael Blanke (with Nestor Molina in the rotation) to go with who we have now would be disastrous. The Sox have already screwed up enough with playing guys in the majors before they were ready, the last thing I want is for the Sox to completely screw up the process by trying to rush it.
A stopgap veteran is supposed to keep the seat warm until another prospect's ass has grown enough to use it. When July rolls around, we can pawn Fukudome off for a minor leaguer or two. Until then, he will get his playing time and should be decent as a 4th outfielder.

soxinem1

02-15-2012, 07:33 PM

When July rolls around, we can pawn Fukudome off for a minor leaguer or two. Until then, he will get his playing time and should be decent as a 4th outfielder.

If he is a 4th OF, we wouldn't get Joe Borchard in a trade come July.

If he's a regular, we wouldn't get Joe Borchard in a trade come July.... Especially when the team that acquires him has to pay him $500,000 not to play for them in 2013.

Besides, he will be un-tradeable when KW shocks the baseball world by giving him a three-year extension in May. :smile:

Honestly, I'd rather see Dan Johnson get AB's over him.

DSpivack

02-15-2012, 08:07 PM

If he is a 4th OF, we wouldn't get Joe Borchard in a trade come July.

If he's a regular, we wouldn't get Joe Borchard in a trade come July.... Especially when the team that acquires him has to pay him $500,000 not to play for them in 2013.

Besides, he will be un-tradeable when KW shocks the baseball world by giving him a three-year extension in May. :smile:

Honestly, I'd rather see Dan Johnson get AB's over him.

Dan Johnson is not an OF, though. And why do you prefer him to Fukudome? The latter is a career .260/.361/.399 hitter, the former is .235/.334/.405 hitter.

Golden Sox

02-15-2012, 09:24 PM

The reaction of WSI members to the Fukudome signing convinces me how hungry the White Sox fans are for something positive to happen to this team. The only decent thing that has happened this off season was the long term contract given to Danks. I wish KW would of done something major this off season. White Sox fans are definitely ready for it.

SephClone89

02-15-2012, 09:30 PM

The reaction of WSI members to the Fukudome signing convinces me how hungry the White Sox fans are for something positive to happen to this team. The only decent thing that has happened this off season was the long term contract given to Danks. I wish KW would of done something major this off season. White Sox fans are definitely ready for it.

Like trading for a former Cy Young winner? Signing one of the most consistent power hitters in baseball? Claiming an incredibly talented center fielder off waivers?

I'm not seeing where Kenny is "afraid to let the kids play". All of his best young players are going to be on the Major League roster when the team heads for Texas on April 6th. As others have said in this thread, the ones that are left behind are not ready to help the current club or are better off playing every day in the minors.

I'm not seeing where Kenny is "afraid to let the kids play". All of his best young players are going to be on the Major League roster when the team heads for Texas on April 6th. As others have said in this thread, the ones that are left behind are not ready to help the current club or are better off playing every day in the minors.

Sale is 22 will be 23 by opener, Read is 23, and I agree with your post.

Daver

02-16-2012, 12:55 AM

This thread is a hoot.

doublem23

02-16-2012, 01:05 AM

I agree with what you said, except for the protests about this signing.

I doubt Danks sees much major-league time because his talent level is not very promising. But still, I would want to see other young players if we are going to supposedly start building from within.

For a team that is supposed to be 'rebuilding' and 'getting younger', why sign a 34-year old bust for depth? Depth is for contending teams, so if you are getting younger, i.e., rebuilding, why even sign him? Rotate any minor league OF you have until you find one that sticks.

I find it hard to rationalize trading a closer making a low salary for a borderline prospect, letting Buehrle walk without even a wimper, shopping your starting pitching to get younger prospects (Gavin Floyd can still be dealt and probably will by end of July), then signing a bust like Fukudome to add 'depth'. Rebuilding means rebuild, so do it.

Why have this base-clogger who craps out by June 15 taking AB's from your younger players? Let Lillibridge be your main back up guy.

So my take is, if you are going to blow it up, then do it. Plan on having all the vets except possibly Konerko gone by August. But don't stave it off by bringing guys like this on board. All it does is rob the players you want to see and evaluate of playing time.

"Rebuilding" doesn't mean you take all your minor league players and shuffle them around the Major League roster and hope some of them works. Rebuilding means you invest internally. Signing Fukudome to a short, cheap contract is exactly that, he protects the Sox's farm hands from getting pressed into Major League action too early. Outside of Danks, who again, this cannot be repeated enough times, sucks, there are no OF in the system that should be in the Majors at all this year. Mitchell, Walker, and Thompson all need everyday playing time and one-on-one tutoring with their coaches that you get in the minors. They don't need to be sitting on the bench 1/2 the week and getting spotty playing time.

How does Fukudome take anything away from Lillibridge? Lillibridge is still probably the 10th guy on the team since he can play 2B and 1B in addition to the OF. The Sox, however, may find themselves one day in a situation where they need a second bench guy after Lillibridge for some reason. The Sox used 20 position players in 2011, 6 of which were primarily outfielders. You need to have more than just 9 guys.

Again, it took me 10 seconds to find that both the Rays and Royals, low payroll teams with exceptionally deep farm systems, signed crappy, over the hill veterans to cheap, short contracts like the Sox did with Fukudome this year, to act as stopgap players in the Majors while their more promising future players get the seasoning they need in the minor leagues. Every single team in the league does this.

If he is a 4th OF, we wouldn't get Joe Borchard in a trade come July.

If he's a regular, we wouldn't get Joe Borchard in a trade come July.... Especially when the team that acquires him has to pay him $500,000 not to play for them in 2013.

Besides, he will be un-tradeable when KW shocks the baseball world by giving him a three-year extension in May. :smile:

Honestly, I'd rather see Dan Johnson get AB's over him.

Play-off teams need depth, too, and Fukudome is a left-handed hitting outfielder capable of playing all 3 positions and has a great track record as a PH. The Cubs were able to deal him at the trade deadline last year. Who knows what 2012 will bring? In the mean time, $500 K is not an ungodly amount of money to Major League teams, that's basically 1 league minimum salary. I sincerely doubt any trade in baseball has ever fallen apart over a $500 K option since the 1980s.

As for Dan Johnson... Ugh, please look at his slash line from last year and realize that you've just taken this hilariously terrible thread to another new low.

The guy is the 4th OF. He can play all 3 positions. He's left-handed. He's a good pinch hitter. He's making, at most, $1 M this season (less than 1% of the Sox's total payroll). Yes, I know he played for the Cubs before. Deal with it.

doublem23

02-16-2012, 01:10 AM

The reaction of WSI members to the Fukudome signing convinces me how hungry the White Sox fans are for something positive to happen to this team. The only decent thing that has happened this off season was the long term contract given to Danks. I wish KW would of done something major this off season. White Sox fans are definitely ready for it.

Apparently not because when the Sox actually go out and make a pretty good move, finding a decent veteran backup for peanuts, they go berserk because they don't want to see ex-Cubs or are drinking the Jordan Danks Kool-Aid hard.

Boondock Saint

02-16-2012, 02:31 AM

Apparently not because when the Sox actually go out and make a pretty good move, finding a decent veteran backup for peanuts, they go berserk because they don't want to see ex-Cubs or are drinking the Jordan Danks Kool-Aid hard.

You apparently are greatly underestimating how desperately this city needs another Jordan.

I'm not seeing where Kenny is "afraid to let the kids play". All of his best young players are going to be on the Major League roster when the team heads for Texas on April 6th. As others have said in this thread, the ones that are left behind are not ready to help the current club or are better off playing every day in the minors.

Castro won't make the club. He needs to be starting in AAA to sort out his issues. His command and mechanics were all over the place.

kittle42

02-16-2012, 10:34 AM

Apparently not because when the Sox actually go out and make a pretty good move, finding a decent veteran backup for peanuts, they go berserk because they don't want to see ex-Cubs or are drinking the Jordan Danks Kool-Aid hard.

And...scene.

soxinem1

02-16-2012, 11:15 AM

The guy is the 4th OF. He can play all 3 positions. He's left-handed. He's a good pinch hitter. He's making, at most, $1 M this season (less than 1% of the Sox's total payroll). Yes, I know he played for the Cubs before. Deal with it.

When did I say anything about him being an ex-cub? :scratch:

Castro won't make the club. He needs to be starting in AAA to sort out his issues. His command and mechanics were all over the place.

Coop will fix him.:D:

slavko

02-16-2012, 11:20 AM

You apparently are greatly underestimating how desperately this city needs another Jordan.

Made me laugh. Good way to start the day.

XplodingScorbord

02-16-2012, 11:35 AM

The aroma on this board smells like the offseason prior to 2005. World Series here we come!

SephClone89

02-16-2012, 11:36 AM

Apparently not because when the Sox actually go out and make a pretty good move, finding a decent veteran backup for peanuts, they go berserk because they don't want to see ex-Cubs or are drinking the Jordan Danks Kool-Aid hard.

If Jordan's name wasn't "Danks" nobody would have any interest/infatuation with him.

kittle42

02-16-2012, 12:32 PM

If Jordan's name wasn't "Danks" nobody would have any interest/infatuation with him.

I believe this is true.

doublem23

02-16-2012, 01:44 PM

When did I say anything about him being an ex-cub? :scratch:

Perhaps you didn't but there seems to be a strong current in this thread, both stated and implied, that Fukudome is a bad signing because he's a former Baby Bear. Yeah, I know he didn't live up to the hype there, and yeah, I agree, if he's starting 6 days a week we are ****ed, but if you take this signing for what is appears to be on paper; a veteran player with a little bit of defensive flexibility and a good reputation as a pinch hitter whose willing to work for next to nothing for a short deal (relatively speaking), I don't see how this could possibly demand a response any worse than "meh." Sure, I'd like it too if the Sox had some young up and coming OF that could be worked into a rotation or take over for De Aza in CF and let De Aza play OF supersub but that's not the case, our three best OF prospects, Walker, Thompson, and Mitchell, all need substantial work in the minors this year and should not sniff at the Majors at all in 2012 except for either a completely unexpected breakout season or more realistically, a little taste of the Show in September as reward for putting in their dues this season.

Danielgosox38

02-16-2012, 11:51 PM

Lol. What the hell?

Foulke You

02-17-2012, 02:50 AM

Castro won't make the club. He needs to be starting in AAA to sort out his issues. His command and mechanics were all over the place.
Sox need a right hander in that bullpen to replace Frasor. Castro is a hard thrower and if he has a good Spring, he has a good chance to make this team. The Sox have a history of taking the guy who has the best Spring and is throwing well at the time they break camp regardless of experience or organizational ranking. Sergio Santos and Boone Logan come to mind. If Castro is throwing well in Spring, don't be shocked if Robin and Cooper take him.

DirtySox

02-17-2012, 03:45 AM

Sox need a right hander in that bullpen to replace Frasor. Castro is a hard thrower and if he has a good Spring, he has a good chance to make this team. The Sox have a history of taking the guy who has the best Spring and is throwing well at the time they break camp regardless of experience or organizational ranking. Sergio Santos and Boone Logan come to mind. If Castro is throwing well in Spring, don't be shocked if Robin and Cooper take him.

Sounds like a terrible idea for a guy who needs plenty of repetitions as a starter to not only hone his mechanics and command, but better his third pitch. Putting him in the pen would be a waste, especially considering this team won't be contending for anything in 2012.

Stewart is much more likely to to be given that bullpen spot.

SoxSpeed22

02-17-2012, 05:13 PM

Stewart can be just fine as a middle relief guy. He had a ton of trouble adjusting to hitters the second time around while hitters (except for the Twins) did a great job of adjusting to him.
The biggest concern is if our rotation doesn't have enough depth that Stewart has to start. We are relying on a lot from Peavy and Humber.

SOXSINCE'70

02-17-2012, 05:30 PM

Stewart can be just fine as a middle relief guy. He had a ton of trouble adjusting to hitters the second time around while hitters (except for the Twins) did a great job of adjusting to him.
The biggest concern is if our rotation doesn't have enough depth that Stewart has to start. We are relying on a lot from Peavy and Humber.

I see Stewart more as a starter,actually.To me, the "long" relief guy should be Humber.He's suited to it.Asking him to throw 175-200 innings is too much ,IMO.

tstrike2000

02-17-2012, 07:20 PM

I see Stewart more as a starter,actually.To me, the "long" relief guy should be Humber.He's suited to it.Asking him to throw 175-200 innings is too much ,IMO.

Whether or not Humber can log 200 or more innings remains to be seen, but for most of the first half last year, he was our best pitcher. He logged 160+ innings and had a 3.75 ERA. Zach Stewart had close to a 6.00 ERA in 70 innings last year. Humber wore down, but that wasn't too much of a surprise. I really don't know what to expect from Zach Stewart, who had a 6.22 ERA in 8 games started. I like Humber and we really need him in a starting role.

doublem23

02-17-2012, 08:43 PM

Whether or not Humber can log 200 or more innings remains to be seen, but for most of the first half last year, he was our best pitcher. He logged 160+ innings and had a 3.75 ERA. Zach Stewart had close to a 6.00 ERA in 70 innings last year. Humber wore down, but that wasn't too much of a surprise. I really don't know what to expect from Zach Stewart, who had a 6.22 ERA in 8 games started. I like Humber and we really need him in a starting role.

Agreed, I'm much more comfortable giving the starter spot to Humber. Remember this guy has a big time pedigree, he was a 1st round pick of the Mets and was one of the key guys in the Johan Santana trade. No surprise he wore down as the season tailed off, last year was easily the most demanding season of his career. Remember Danks had the same fate in 2007 before he came back strong in 2008. Hoping for a similar rebound for Humber. That would go a long way to making this season enjoyable.

TheVulture

02-17-2012, 11:40 PM

Kaplan: Fukudome's Cub contract "far more impressive"

Hah! You should write headlines for the Korean Central News of the DPRK

Quality move, BTW. I don't see why anyone can complain.

TommyJohn

02-18-2012, 12:57 AM

Hah! You should write headlines for the Korean Central News of the DPRK

Quality move, BTW. I don't see why anyone can complain.

I agree it's a good, low-risk move. Contrary to other opinion, I don't think people are griping that an ex-Cub was signed. I think who don't like the move are remembering that he was a bust with the Cubs, which he was.

kufram

02-18-2012, 08:53 AM

Fukudome was a bust at 46m or whatever exorbitant figure it was. At what we're paying him it would be a stretch to call him a bust even if all he does is catch a few flies.

Foulke You

02-18-2012, 12:02 PM

Sounds like a terrible idea for a guy who needs plenty of repetitions as a starter to not only hone his mechanics and command, but better his third pitch. Putting him in the pen would be a waste, especially considering this team won't be contending for anything in 2012.

Stewart is much more likely to to be given that bullpen spot.
It all depends on how the Sox view Castro's future with the team. You are assuming they view him as a starter but it is possible they view him as a late inning reliever instead. I've read more than one prospect review on Castro that indicated he might be better served pitching out of the bullpen. I've never seen him pitch so I can't comment. I disagree that we have no chance to contend in 2012 and I'm sure that Robin Ventura and the coaching staff will disagree with you as well. Don't expect them to build this roster on the basis that the entire 2012 season is a wash.

As far as Zach Stewart, I would also rather have him that bullpen spot. Stewart always came in and threw strikes and attacked hitters which is what you want in a reliever. As a previous poster pointed out, he tended to struggle after the first time through the order. It's always nice to have that long relief type of guy to call upon in that bullpen to eat some innings. We haven't had one since DJ Carrasco left. Oh, and Stewart is another young guy (25 yrs old) with a good chance to make the team.